Living in America can sometimes have its share of difficulties and problems, but at the same time, still be a great "land of opportunities." I was about six years of age when I first moved to this country. Although still young, I had not received such a culture shock like my parents. Being young and impressionable, I soon adapted to the American culture and learned how things work. A whole new system of values, customs, and habits suddenly was blown into my face and was almost too unbearable. But what got to me were the little things, for instance television and food, to larger issues such as the idea of "free speech." As I grew older in this land, those simple things went on to more personal issues like stereotypes, hints of racism, and being part of a misunderstood culture in a much larger one.
Living in India, I grew up to be what you would call your average child. I would always be on time, very subservient, and up to the neck in manners and etiquette. My school was something out of an American student's nightmare: large walls surrounding the compound (not to mention barb wire and shards of glass at the top), teachers who are like drill instructors, and the courses of action that they take if you suddenly went awry. In India, they did not believe in letting the student speak their minds, or to explain themselves. Instead, they either were sent home or the teacher would come around and hit you over the knuckles with his metal ruler. This taught me to pay attention in class and not to talk back. Although degrading in a way, it seemed to get the class" attention. But after coming here, the school systems seemed a lot more kind and jovial. When I first attended an American school, it seemed that the teachers were almost too happy. I was more used to the grim faces that would strike fear in the hearts of anyone. But I soon adapted and became more involved in school, rather than just doing homework all the time.